What Is a 7-Star Energy Rating? A Guide for Australian Homeowners

If you’re planning to build a new home in Western Australia, you’ve likely come across the term 7-star energy rating. But what does it actually mean and why is it important?

The rules around building homes in Australia are set by the National Construction Code (NCC). Think of it as the big guidebook that ensures homes are safe, durable, comfortable and built to perform well. As part of the latest updates, the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) now requires all new homes to meet a minimum 7-star energy rating. This change marks a significant shift toward more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible housing.

Why Aim for 7 Stars?

A 7-star rated home is designed to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, with minimal reliance on heating or cooling. For homeowners, this means:

• Lower energy bills
• Improved comfort
• A reduced carbon footprint

Achieving this rating involves a combination of smart design choices like insulation, ventilation, orientation, and glazing, that work together to improve your home’s thermal performance.

Glazing

Windows are one of the most important elements in your home’s energy performance. Choosing the right glazing can significantly impact your ability to reach a 7-star rating because windows are a major source of heat gain and loss. High-performance glazing improves insulation and solar control, reducing energy consumption and helping meet rating requirements.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, has a special coating that reflects heat back into your home during cooler months and blocks some of the sun’s heat during summer. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for energy efficiency without the added weight and cost of double glazing.

Low-E glass – Hot Summer Day vs Cold Winter Day

Double glazing is a popular and effective option. It features two panes of glass separated by a gap filled with air or argon gas. Jason Windows uses argon for its superior insulating properties. This setup helps reduce heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

The right glazing solution will depend on your home’s orientation, airflow and budget. Your energy assessor will help determine what’s needed to meet the 7-star standard.

There are many brands of Low-E glass which can be confusing. EnergyTech™, SmartGlass™, ComfortPlus™ are no longer available in Western Australia. Sunergy™ and Planibel G are the Low-E brands Jason Windows supply that comply with Australian Standards and building codes.

Check out our blog post: Glass Requirements in Australian Building Standards – A Simple Guide.

Orientation and Airflow

Smart window placement is just as important as the glazing itself. By orienting windows to capture natural light and breezes, you can reduce your reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

Cross-ventilation is a simple yet powerful strategy. It works by placing windows or vents on opposite sides of your home to create a natural airflow path. This allows cooler air to enter and warmer air to exit, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. Open-plan layouts and strategic landscaping – like planting trees to guide breezes – can further enhance this effect.

Together, orientation and airflow work hand-in-hand with glazing to create a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

Budgeting for a 7-Star Home

Reaching a 7-star rating may require an upfront investment, but there are cost-effective alternatives, like Low-E glass, that can help you meet the standard without stretching your budget too far.

At Jason Windows, we offer free glazing advice to help you make informed decisions that suit your home and your goals. Whether you’re building your dream home or planning a sustainable future, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

A 7-star energy rating isn’t just a number, it’s a reflection of smart design, long-term savings, and a commitment to sustainability. With the right choices, you can build a home that’s comfortable, efficient, and future-ready.

Need help choosing the right glazing for your home? Get in touch with our team for expert advice tailored to your build.